Trump Army secretary nominee withdraws amid fierce opposition

Army Secretary nominee Mark Green has withdrawn from consideration amid fierce opposition from Democrats and advocacy groups, he announced Friday.

Green blamed "false and misleading attacks" against him and said he was stepping aside so as not to be a distraction.

"It is with deep regret I am withdrawing my nomination to be the secretary of the Army," he said in a statement.

"I am honored that President Trump nominated me for this position. I appreciate his support and confidence in me, as well as that of [Defense] Secretary [James] Mattis and many others, and their desire to Make America Great Again by preparing our military to face the many challenges in the world for the safety and security of our nation."